Shares jump after company says that its prostate cancer drug could go to market in 2008.

Super-cheap genetic scanning is set to jolt medicine, offering patients new insights--and painful choices.

The word ‘cramp’ itself is scary, so when in comes to menstrual cramps there is no doubt that it is beyond one’s tolerance. Most women have severe menstrual cramps. But it is always considered normal to the menstrual cycle which is not a complete truth. If the cramps are not because of diseases like endometriosis or [...]

The word ‘cramp’ itself is scary, so when in comes to menstrual cramps there is no doubt that it is beyond one’s tolerance. Most women have severe menstrual cramps. But it is always considered normal to the menstrual cycle which is not a complete truth.

If the cramps are not because of diseases like endometriosis or a pelvic infection (which a doctor can let you know off), then it is mostly due to your daily routine that worsens the natural contraction that one gets before the flow becomes normal.

Here are a few tips to ease your discomfort during the monthly menstrual cycle:

Walk: Walking will release the muscle tension and reduce menstrual cramps by improving circulation in the pelvic organs.

“If you’re walking, strike a relaxed pose that lets you swing your hips and arms freely and lets you breathe rhythmically. If your normally brisk pace wears you out during this time, do yourself a favor and slow down,” suggests Robert Thayer, Ph.D., professor of psychology at California State University, Long Beach.

Take refuge in Heat: Hot substances work as pain relievers, so take a warm water bath. Also use a heating pad on your belly and your back. This will ease your spasms and reduce the pain.

Herbal Tea: Herbal tea with gingerroot can work wonders to brighten you up when you are struggling with the pain.

Take a Balanced Diet: Healthier diet may not cure the cramps but it ensures your overall well-being, which is very important to get control of your cramps. Cut out the salty and sweet junk foods as they will make you feel sluggish. Add more of vegetables, fruits, chicken and fish in your diet. Also, instead of taking heavy meals three times a day, space your food in small meals throughout the day.

Say no to Caffeine: Doctors do not recommend caffeine in your intake because it can contribute to menstrual discomfort by making you nervous. So stay away from coffee, tea, cola and chocolate. The oils in coffee may also irritate your intestines.

Say no to Alcohol: Alcohol worsens the problem one faces during menstrual cycle. So, it’s better to say ‘no’.

Yoga: Yoga instructors suggest that yoga can help get relief from the menstrual cramps. A light routine that stretches and limbers the hips and other joints but doesn’t vigorously compress or stretch the abdomen is recommended.

Calcium a must: Calcium maintains the normal muscle tone and therefore prevents cramps.

Step up the magnesium: Magnesium optimizes calcium absorption in your body. So you will lose less calcium which will indirectly reduce cramps.

Be particular about Vitamins: Healthy intake of Vitamins and minerals is sure to prevent cramps.

Medication: Say ‘yes’ to drugs! Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen (Advil) relieve you from cramps and also nausea that you get due to cramps. They do not cause any side-effects.

“The trick to easing your pain is to take medication at the very onset of pain or discomfort and repeat every six hours until the pain subsides. Don’t save the medication for times of severe pain,” says Andrea Rapkin, M.D., associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Medicine.

Remember - Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent discomfort during menstrual cycle.

In an ever-more stressful business world, today's senior managers must protect their most important asset: their health and well-being.